Deep Brain Stimulation use while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Evidence from a few mothers who received deep brain stimulation indicated that no difficulty was encountered with lactation, other than minor discomfort with chest neurostimulators.

Effects in Breastfed Infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

In a case series of pregnant patients treated for dystonia with deep brain stimulation (DBS), 4 of 5 mothers breastfed their 6 infants (1 set of twins and 2 siblings) with no apparent difficulty. One mother chose not to breastfeed, unrelated to DBS. Two mothers reported minor discomfort during breastfeeding with chest neurostimulators.[1]

References

1.

Ziman N, Coleman RR, Starr PA, et al. Pregnancy in a series of dystonia patients treated with deep brain stimulation: Outcomes and management recommendations. Stereotact Funct Neurosurg. 2016;94:60–5. [PubMed: 26977859]

Substance Name

Deep Brain Stimulation

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Electric Stimulation Therapy